Fire district delays search for chief

The search for a successor to West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Andy Price was supposed to begin in February, but district commissioners weren’t sure where to start.

Price is retiring in May 2015 and the WMFR board of elected commissioners gathered March 6 in a work session to decide if they would begin the hiring process among qualified WMFR candidates, look outside the district or do both.

After much discussion, they delayed a decision to the March 20 regular commission meeting.

One candidate considered in line for chief is WMFR Deputy Chief Brett Pollock. But he is retiring in 2016.

Commissioners agreed Pollock would be an unlikely successor with only one year to serve as chief.

Commissioners will bring the names of potential candidates within the WMFR to the March 20 meeting. If none appear to meet their qualifications, commissioners will begin to search outside the department.

Commissioners could search within Manatee County or advertise the position statewide and nationally.

The next WMFR district commission meeting is 6 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at the WMFR administrative building, 6417 Third Ave. W., Bradenton.